Nat Lehrman

I had forgotten he was no longer with us. That's significant. It is, as well, a tribute to the memories I have of working with him, both at Playboy and later at Columbia College. They are good memories, filled with fondness and laughter and times shared. Even now, I'm glad I knew him.

Growing up across the street from Nat, he and Kaz were always around. I'd see him washing his car, or Kaz working in her small but immaculate garden. Most often I'd see him coming home from playing tennis, racket in hand. I only learned of his passing from the Hauselmans when we told them of my own mother's sudden death. So many of the fixtures of my neighborhood are gone. When I was purchasing advertising for my business he provided me with insight and guidance. I will miss his smile, his...

Nat was my mentor while I was at Columbia College. I was the first student for whom he secured an internship at Essence magazine (in the 80s). He was super smart and accomplished, but didn't take himself too seriously -- and was approachable and accessible (even as the Chair). He took me to dinner in NY with his daughter and his wife. The whole family was pleasant, open and interesting. I thought he was fantastic and a beacon of knowledge, mostly passed along in the form of incredible...

I was a j-student at Columbia and graduated in 1995. There was never a time Nat's door was closed to a student. He shared in the wins, tested a student's thoughts when needed and helped shape countless students' futures. I don't know where I'd be without the likes of people like Nat Lehman and Don Gold, his colleague at Playboy and Columbia.

Nat will be sorely missed.

I'm not sure if Nat's family knows how many lives Nat changed. He was my mentor at Columbia and he was my friend. When I got sick the month before graduation, Nat talked to all my teachers to get pass/fail status and I was able to graduate on time. He taught me my journalistic ethics and he taught me a plethora of life lessons. He will be missed but he will continue to be admired.
Best,
Michel Schwartz
Class of 1996

To brother Marvin, a friend of many years, I send my deepest condolences. I knew the high regard in which Marvin held his brother. They were very close friends. I learned of this thru our mutual friend, Kichi, and it saddens me. Good health and happiness to you, Marv. Annie

Before fellow former Brooklyn College Vanguard journalist Nat headed out to Chicago, and before I started on what would turn out to be my permanent exile in Europe, he invited me for dinner at his home in The Bronx or Queens one night, someplace far out on the subway line. As always, Nat was witty and accessible, a hell of a decent guy and an excellent host, as was his charming and delightful wife Kazuko. It was a lovely evening. I'm sorry they both are gone.

So sorry, for your loss. I remember summers in St. Louis and he had a great sense of humor

To the family, please accept my condolences for the loss of your loved one. May you all find comfort by drawing close to God during this difficult time. James 4:8